Here's How to Travel With Your Pet

It’s hard — and sometimes impossible — to leave the furry members of your family at home. And why should you? With pet-friendly destinations all over the world and protocol in place for making sure pets have a comfortable flight, traveling with pets is definitely possible, even if it’s not always a breeze. There are lots of things to keep in mind in order to keep your pets happy and yourself sane when you’re on the road.

Traveling with pets requires a bit of extra planning and patience. From booking flights to finding pet-friendly accommodations and making sure your furry friend is comfortable during transit, a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, here’s what you need to know to make it a paws-itive experience.

Choose a Pet-Friendly Destination

Choosing the right destination for you and your pet can mean the difference between a relaxing vacation and a stressful ordeal. Luckily, there are plenty of international options that welcome pets of all kinds! Some cities that are more accommodating to certain types of pets than others. For example, people in New York City and Paris tend to own and love dogs, which makes these two cities prime places to take your four-legged friend. These cities features many dog parks for your baby to stretch his or her legs, and many businesses and restaurants welcome dogs (outside).

To make the most of your pet-friendly vacation, research ahead to find local pet services such as grooming services, vets, and pet sitters. You never know when you might need an extra hand, whether it’s for a quick bath after a muddy park visit or an unexpected medical issue.

Get Your Pet Cleared to Fly

Traveling with your pet isn’t as easy as just showing up at the airport. Pets often require specific documents, which vary by country and type of pet. For domestic travel, such as between states in the U.S., pets typically need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, issued by a licensed and accredited vet, certifying that your pet is healthy and free of contagious diseases.

For international travel, you will need an International Health Certificate or Pet Passport. These documents provide proof of vaccinations, such as rabies, and a record of your pet’s health status. The Pet Passport is common in the European Union and includes additional information, like microchip details, that allows for easier travel between multiple countries. Vaccinations must be up to date, and it is a good idea to have your pet checked again upon returning home to ensure they haven’t picked up any illnesses or parasites during your travels.

It’s also essential to keep your pet’s identification current, particularly if traveling internationally, where a microchip is often required. Different countries have specific rules about how and where the microchip is implanted and what type of chip is acceptable. Proof of chip registration is often needed as part of the pet’s travel documents, and outdated microchips can sometimes lead to lengthy quarantine periods. Some countries also have quarantine policies, which can range from a few days to several months, so make sure to research each destination’s requirements thoroughly. If traveling to multiple countries, verify that you meet all requirements for each location to avoid any issues at the borders.

Research Your Airline’s Rules

In addition to knowing the general rules of taking your pet with you when you fly, every airline publishes its own set of rules as well. Before you commit to traveling with your pet, take the time to understand the specific rules of the airline that you’re using.

For example, some airlines will let passengers bring their pets into the cabin of the plane if they fit into a compliant animal carrier that will fit under the seat in front of you. Other airlines require that they fly as accompanied checked baggage. Age is also an important factor: some airlines require that the animal is at least 15 weeks old before flying with them internationally.

Get Ready to Pass Through Security

If your furry friend is traveling with you in the cabin of the airplane, you’ll both have to pass through security. Once you get to security, you’ll need to take your pet out of its carrier and present it to the TSA agents. The pet carrier will most likely have to pass through the baggage scanner while you and your pet go through the upright scanner.

For smoother security checks, train your pet to be comfortable with being handled outside of their carrier ahead of time. Practice taking them in and out of the carrier at home so they’re less stressed when it’s time to do so at the airport. Have a leash handy for control during the screening process, as TSA agents may ask you to carry or walk your pet through the metal detector.

Keep Your Pet Calm Throughout the Flight

One of the biggest challenges of traveling by air with your pet is keeping them calm during what may be a stressful experience for them. An easy trick to build comfort with your furry pal is to put a worn piece of clothing into the crate with them. The familiarity of your smell might help to keep them calm during this uncertain time. Swaddling your animal like a baby will also help to ease their anxiety. You may want to consider buying a specially designed blanket or thunder shirt to keep them calm.

FAQs:

Q: What are some tips for finding pet-friendly accommodations abroad?
A: Use pet-friendly travel websites or apps to search for hotels, vacation rentals, or resorts that welcome pets. Read reviews from other pet owners to gauge how accommodating the place truly is. It’s also wise to call ahead to confirm pet policies, fees, and whether amenities like pet beds or bowls are available.

Q: How can I help my pet adjust to time zone changes?
A: Gradually shift your pet’s feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule by an hour each day before departure. Upon arrival, adapt to the new time zone immediately. Consistency with meals and walks will help your pet adjust faster.

Q: Are there any restrictions on pet food when traveling internationally?
A: Many countries have strict regulations about bringing in pet food. It’s best to check the destination country’s import rules, as some only allow unopened, commercially packaged food. Carry enough food for the journey and plan to buy more at your destination.

Q: How do I keep my pet hydrated during long flights?
A: Freeze water in your pet’s bowl or a collapsible water bottle before the flight. The ice will melt slowly, preventing spills and keeping your pet hydrated. Offer water during layovers or whenever the airline allows.

Q: What should I do if my pet gets motion sickness while traveling?
A: Consult your vet before traveling; they might recommend medications. Keep your pet’s carrier well-ventilated, and avoid feeding them a large meal four to six hours before travel. Consider using a pheromone spray or calming treats to ease anxiety.

Q: Are there any apps or tools to track my pet’s travel itinerary?
A: Yes, apps and websites like Pettopass and BringFido allow you to store important travel documents, vaccination records, and find pet-friendly services. GPS tracking devices for pets can also help you monitor their location during your trip.

Do you travel frequently with your pets? What are some things you’ve learned along the way? Let us know in the comments section!